After Dental Implant Surgery

The healing period for the first phase of implants lasts approximately 2-6 months, depending on the location of the implant (upper jaw/lower jaw). You may notice some muscle stiffness, facial bruising, or, infrequently, a persistent numbing sensation (especially if implants are placed in the lower jaw). This is normal activity and usually temporary in nature and will disappear within 7-10 days. If you experience anything abnormal or have any questions or concerns, please call our office immediately.

Bleeding

Some oozing or bleeding is normal for the first 24 hours after surgery. If there is active bleeding, place a gauze pad over the area and apply firm pressure for about 20 minutes. Repeat if necessary.

Note: If active bleeding continues, please call our office immediately.

Swelling

For the first 5-10 days after surgery, you will experience moderate to severe facial swelling around the surgical site, cheeks, chin, eyes, mouth, & up to the eyes. For the first 24 hours, apply an ice bag to your face on the side of the surgery for 20 minutes on, then 20 minutes off. After the first 24 hours, apply warm compress (a warm damp towel or heating pad).

Note: Normal swelling and/or bruising may last 5-10 days after surgery.

Sutures

Sutures will be removed 3 weeks after surgery. Be careful to avoid disturbing the sutures and gums.

Hygiene

Rinse your mouth 3-5 times a day for 7 days, starting the next day with warm salt water (1/2 tsp salt in warm water). Brush the teeth and surgical site gently with a soft toothbrush to maintain oral hygiene. Be aware that the surgical site will be tender and minor bleeding may occur. You may be given a bottle of antimicrobial mouthrinse called Peridex. You will rinse with this 3 times a day and use a Q-tip dipped in the rinse to gently clean the healing cap and gums at the surgical sites.

Note: Be gentle when cleaning surgical sites as to not disturb the gums and sutures.

Diet

Drink nourishing liquids and eat soft solid foods such as soup, yogurt, ice cream, jell-o, etc. for 4-6 weeks after surgery. You may slowly progress to a more solid diet after this period, as tolerated.

Note: Do not use straws and no forceful spitting for 1 week after surgery.

Exercise

All exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 7-10 days after surgery. You may gradually begin to increase activity after this period.

Smoking

Avoid smoking for as long as possible after surgery. Smoking can impact the healing process.

Graft Material

It is normal during the early stages of healing to lose the top layer of graft material. It will look and feel like granules of sand. Do not be alarmed.

Medications

Take prescription medications as directed. It is recommended that you take 1 pain pill following the surgery before the anesthetic wears off. Please take the full course of antibiotics as directed until it is all gone. The antibiotics are very important in the prevention of any post-operative infection. If you experience severe side effects or allergic reaction, please contact our office as soon as possible at 714-771-7677.